Some pix would be helpful, but generally speaking the Thunder is worth it's weight in G strings! I'm sure the Epi is a good guitar and might win on looks, but I doubt that it's in the same class as the Thunder as far as output, tone and playability is concerned. And if it is the (A)ctive version then you, of course, have the added option to jump start your car when you need a boost!

Well the trade has been agreed and due to take place this weekend. Its not in mint condition so I feel a restoration project coming on. No problem with that as I've done it a few times. But if anybody has done it chemically before hints and tips would be welcome. I haven't actually seen the guitar yet (not even pics) so this may not be necessary. An Epi I can rebuy anytime but I just can't pass up this opportunity, so inspired I am by my recent Prestige 117 acquistion. I will post pics when I can.

mlpower123 wrote:...But if anybody has done it chemically before hints and tips would be welcome...

I think it would have to be in seriously damaged condition to strip her. These normally respond well to some wet sanding and a good polishing compound, the original finish is fairly thin.

I believe most here have sanded rather than chemically stripped and followed up with several applications of oil finish. I have used chemical strippers in the past but only on paint. I wouldn't recommend chemicals on this.

So I finally got the guitar. Instead of the trade I acquired it for a cash price of €100 (!).

Three hours of cleaning is causing me to question whether it's worth stripping / refinishing or whether to just leave as is. It took 90 minutes of scrubbing with Brasso to clean the tone / volume controls but they out good as new. The neck was pitted with compacted dirt to the extent that it was a true pleasure to see it coming up clean and unworn beneath the grime. Next I will have to spend several hours trying to shift the grime off the bridge. After that though it should look good as new other than the wood. There are places where its like somebody has scribbled on it with a very blunt fat pencil - there are deep scribble marks that could only be shifted by sanding it down.

For all of that, very happy indeed with the sound and general setup. it sounds different to my Prestige 117 but that's good for variety. I find it amazing that somebody would sell a guitar like this for €100.